Long on spirit, Mary Shideler spent 15 years on a quest to paddle all 1,007 lakes in northern Minnesota’s Itasca County. Sometimes with the help of friends, but often on her own, she carried her kayak through brush, trudged across bogs in tall boots, and put up with hordes of mosquitoes and legions of wood ticks. In close-up encounters, she observed birds and animals in their forest and wetland habitats and became adept at identifying wildflowers. Along the way, she also learned to trust her own capacity to overcome obstacles, including her fear of being alone. The Kayak Lady is a collection of stories and photos—a mix of adventure and fun—that documents Mary’s experiences.

“Mary Shideler possesses both a sense of wonder and a sense of purpose. Her kayaking quest should be an inspiration to all of us who dare to follow our dreams.”Sam Cook, Outdoors Writer/Columnist – Duluth News Tribune

“It is a tale of patience and persistence…of paddling for years with unabated enthusiasm.”Northern Nature Review